Treatment of patella fractures by compressive external fixation (CEF)

Recently, the traditional treatment of patellar fractures is often complicated by infection and insecure fixation. Occurring complications can be treated promptly, which is cost-effective, but limits the function of the joint. The CEF apparatus proposed by us can effectively treat patella fractures with fewer complications. Transverse fractures of the patella with displacement were treated according to the method of compression external fixation, based on the principles of the Ilizarov apparatus with stretched spokes. All patients after the operation were allowed to move in the joints and load. In total, twenty-five fractures were treated with our CEF apparatus. Treatment in 12 patients was by percutaneous procedure. In the treatment of all fractures, a lasting fusion was achieved. The CEF apparatus was removed after 6-8 weeks. In 12 patients the total volume of movements was restored, the average assessment of knee joint function by Insall was 96 points, the average observation period was four years. Mild complications in the form of inflammation in the area of ​​the spokes were observed in five patients, they were treated with local remedies and antibiotics. The CEF technique is a safe and effective method of treating patella fractures, it has advantages over conventional methods in the case of soft tissue deficiency. CEF provides rapid recovery without any additional surgical interventions.